Devine Scripture

Matthew 22:5

What does Matthew 22:5 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 22:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 22:5 means

Rather than accepting the renewed invitation, the invited guests show utter disdain, prioritizing their mundane affairs—farming and commerce—over the king's grand feast. Their indifference signifies spiritual apathy and the human tendency to prioritize worldly pursuits over God's divine call. This highlights a deliberate choice to neglect a momentous spiritual opportunity. Their casual disregard is not merely a scheduling conflict but a spiritual rebellion, demonstrating a profound lack of respect for the king.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his merchandise;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his merchandise;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But they gave no attention, and went about their business, one to his farm, another to his trade:

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and they, having disregarded <FI>it<Fi> , went away, the one to his own field, and the other to his merchandise;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But they neglected and went their ways, one to his farm and another to his merchandise.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But they made light of it, and went, one to his own land, and another to his commerce.

Context

This verse directly follows the king's second, more urgent invitation, revealing the guests' hardened hearts. Their dismissive actions contrast sharply with the king's generosity, pushing the narrative towards a significant turning point. This neglect lays the groundwork for the more violent rejection that follows, progressively revealing the severe consequences of their choices.

v.4Again he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them that are bidden, Behold, I have made ready my dinner; my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come to the marriage feast.

v.5This passage

v.6and the rest laid hold on his servants, and treated them shamefully, and killed them.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 1:7

    The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge; Butthe foolish despise wisdom and instruction.

  • Matthew 24:38

    For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark,

  • Romans 8:6

    For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace:

  • Romans 2:4

    Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

  • Matthew 13:22

    And he that was sown among the thorns, this is he that heareth the word; and the care of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

  • Acts 2:13

    But others mocking said, They are filled with new wine.

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